Rev. Bry Shields to Retire as President of McGill-Toolen in 2026

The Rev. Bry Shields, president of McGill-Toolen Catholic High School, has announced his retirement from the role, effective June 30, 2026. This decision was confirmed in a statement released today by St. Ignatius Catholic Church and the Archdiocese of Mobile. Rev. Shields has held the presidency at McGill-Toolen since 1989, making his tenure one of the longest in the school’s history.

In his announcement, Rev. Shields expressed a desire to dedicate his full attention to his responsibilities at St. Ignatius Church, where he will continue to serve as pastor. He indicated that this focus on his parish duties is a significant reason for stepping down from the school presidency.

Rev. Shields has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational and spiritual landscape of McGill-Toolen, which has been a cornerstone of Catholic education in Mobile, Alabama. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to academic excellence and the development of a strong community among students and faculty.

As he prepares for this transition, Rev. Shields emphasized his gratitude for the support he has received over the years. “I am deeply thankful for the many blessings I have experienced during my time at McGill-Toolen, and I look forward to continuing my ministry at St. Ignatius,” he stated.

In light of his upcoming departure, discussions regarding the selection of his successor are expected to commence shortly. The Archdiocese of Mobile will likely play a crucial role in this process, ensuring that the next leader upholds the values and mission of McGill-Toolen Catholic High School.

The announcement of Rev. Shields’ retirement has elicited responses from various stakeholders within the school community, many of whom have expressed their appreciation for his long-standing dedication. As McGill-Toolen prepares for this significant change, the impact of his leadership will be felt for years to come.

Looking ahead, the school community is committed to maintaining the high standards set during Rev. Shields’ presidency while embracing new opportunities for growth and development in the future. The leadership transition represents not only a change at the top but also a chance for the institution to reflect on its legacy and envision its future.